Susan Coultrap-McQuin (presiding), Michael Ameigh (recording). Mary Beth Bell, Yvonne Petrella, Rhonda Mandel, Linda Rae Markert, Rameen Mohammadi, Richard Skolnik, David King, Cathy Santos, Richard Skolnik.

Update on Multicultural Initiative:

Cathy Santos, Associate Provost for Multicultural Opportunities and Programs, discussed successful initiatives underway that encourage recruitment and retention of minority students and faculty.  She reported that actual fall 2007 enrollment exceeded targets for attracting African-American and Asian students, and that efforts are underway to build awareness of the many organizations and activities that would be of interest to recruits. 

In recent weeks Cathy has been meeting with departments and some candidates for faculty positions to apprise them of programs and resources available in the greater community that serve specific ethnic and cultural needs.

Integrity Pledge:

The Council discussed a proposal by the Committee on Intellectual Integrity that students be invited to take an ‘Integrity Pledge’ to maintain the highest standards of honesty, intellectual integrity, and personal responsibility as they pursue their studies.  The pledge could be incorporated into various campus activities throughout the academic year.

The Council concurred.  The proposal will be discussed with President’s Council.

Professional Development Center:

Provost Coultrap-McQuin let discussion of an organizational plan for a new Center for Professional Excellence.  The plan incorporates ideas sent forward by faculty, staff and administrators over the past several years. Units in Academic Affairs that offer professional development will share resources to provide coordinated workshops, seminars, training sessions, and other events.

A Board of Directors with representation from all departments currently engaged in professional development activities on campus will oversee the Center.  We discussed various strengths of more coordinated efforts.

-adjourned